3 considerations when choosing broadband

What speed do you need?

Download speed is probably the biggest factor to consider, especially if you're sharing broadband with other housemates. If it's too slow, you're going to be suffering from buffering (and high blood pressure) for the length of the contract.

The cheapest packages are standard broadband, with 'potential' download speeds of 17 Mbps (often far less). This option is suitable for low-medium use by about 3 people.

If you have a need for speed, fibre is the word you're looking for. Expect speeds from 50 Mbps to 362 Mbps. Fibre-optic broadband is now available for 80% of the UK and has come down massively in price over the past few years. Overall it represents the best value for student houses, especially when the cost is split between housemates.

How long will you be in your house?

Students are typically best off with a 12 month contract to coincide with short-term tenancy agreements. If you are planning to stay put for longer, 18 month contracts can sometimes offer better value.

Every now and then a 9 month student broadband deal pops up (we'll include these below if so). These shorter contracts can suit students not staying at uni over the summer months (ie. September - July), but aren't always cheaper overall.

Are you interested in subscription TV?

All-in-one bundles of TV and broadband often give the best overall value if you're likely to pay for a TV package anyway.

Effective cost breakdown

BT broadband

Superfast Fibre Unlimited

The only 9 month student broadband offer this year. Tempting for sports lovers with the free BT Sport app, but Virgin Media’s lifetime cost is almost £100 less for double the speed and TV despite being a longer contract.

FAQs

Can I get broadband without a phone line?

For standard broadband (ADSL) an active phone line is needed as that’s how the data is transmitted. Fibre optic broadband runs along a separate cable, which means you can usually do away with the phone line. Check with the provider to find out for sure.

Until recently, broadband companies would charge extra for phone line rental alongside advertised broadband prices. They must now include line rental in the total price, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a phone line.

If you do need a phone line, it may need to be activated or reconnected by BT before you can install broadband.

Do I need to buy a router?

A working router is needed to share the broadband connection and transmit WiFi.

Most broadband providers supply you with their own standard router (sometimes at a cost), but it can sometimes be worth investing in a better one (browse on Amazon).

How long does it take to install broadband?

For phone line broadband connections it can take up to 2 weeks, whereas for fibre it can be activated sooner.

How long it will actually take depends on whether you need an engineer to come out or if anything needs activating.

How can I check my broadband speed?

Run a quick line test on SpeedTest.net to reveal your live download and upload speeds. If they’re way below the advertised speeds, complain to your provider.

How do I cancel broadband?

You have the right to cancel your broadband – without penalty – within the first 14 days of placing your order.

Beyond that, check with your provider for their early cancellation policy. It will almost certainly involve a penalty fee, but in some cases it can be worth paying to switch to a cheaper or better service.

At the end of your contract you usually need to give a month’s notice to the provider (but again check your specific terms).

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